The gradual integration of tribals from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands into mainstream society is stirring a range of responses, with experts divided over whether this shift will bring empowerment or exploitation.
Advocates argue that integration is crucial for the survival of these communities, while critics warn of potential exploitation and loss of culture.
The Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) such as the Shompens, Jarawas (Ang), Onges, and the Great Andamanese, who live in the dense reserved forests of these islands, are at the centre of this debate.
These groups have traditionally lived in isolation, protected from contact with non-tribals. However, recent developments signal a shift towards gradual integration.
A significant moment occurred on April 19, 2024, when Nauaaw and six other Shompens, including Jetuwai, Thuwaee, and Chemai, participated in the Lok Sabha elections for the first time.
The Shompens, a predominantly uncontacted nomadic tribe with a population of 244 on Nicobar Island, have traditionally shied away from such civic engagement. Their participation in the election has been seen as a major milestone in the integration process.
Contention over development projects
The question of integration has been further complicated by the Centre’s Rs 72,000-crore international transshipment project on Nicobar Island. Concerns have been raised that the project could displace the Shompens from their traditional habitats.
Local administration officials, however, assert that the development is planned in areas uninhabited by the Shompens, who relocated deeper into the forests after the 2004 tsunami.
As the controversy continues, some Shompens who had opted for isolation have begun engaging more with mainstream society. This was evident when several members voted in the recent elections.
Some Shompens have even started interacting with government tamiyos (caretakers), which anthropologists view as the beginning of a voluntary integration process.
Dr Pronob Sircar, Tribal Welfare Officer at the Andaman Adim Janjati Vikas Samiti (AAJS), said, "The gradual integration of PVTGs is occurring through tribal policies that encourage developing communication channels and participation based on their willingness."
He further noted that the Ang tribe is also embracing mainstream lifestyles, supported by initiatives such as the 'Ang Katha' educational module, which documents their rituals and ethnobotanical knowledge.
"Similar educational modules are in place for other PVTGs, which will help them differentiate between societal norms," he added.
Balancing Integration and preservation
The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs defends the integration efforts, emphasising empowerment and stabilisation for these vulnerable populations.
Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram said, "Integration is based on the tribes' willingness, not coercion, and aims to balance modernisation with cultural preservation."
Prominent tribal leaders, including Great Andamanese Queen Surmai, Onge King Totoko, and Nicobar Prince Rashid, have expressed support for a gradual approach to integration.
King Totoko, for example, works for the Public Welfare Department in Dugong Creek, and his neighbours, Rakabegi and Oroti, hold various government positions.
Such roles represent a significant shift from their earlier lives, isolated from mainstream society. Similarly, the Great Andamanese are beginning to step out of their settlements more frequently. Techa, the first Great Andamanese to clear the NEET-2022 exam, said, "My journey from remote Strait Island to Port Blair and then clearing the NEET was challenging. My concern was my acceptance in the outside world."
Another Great Andamanese, Olake, who works as a junior engineer in the Public Works Department, stated, "It’s time to think beyond the jungles for a career."
Moreover, nine Great Andamanese, including Buro, Ellage, and Morophoo, have joined the police force, managing lookout posts and clerical duties. Reflecting on his journey, Buro said, "From living in the jungle to wearing khaki... I am speechless," he added.
Andamanese sportspersons such as Moore (cricket), Dech (archery), and Jurol (archery) are also achieving prominence in their respective fields, further exemplifying the integration process.
Changing lifestyles
Visits to PVTG homes reveal a gradual adoption of modern amenities, such as televisions, music systems, and personal care products
SA Awaradi, former Director of the Andaman Nicobar Tribal Research Institute (ANTRI), noted, "It is evident that PVTGs will integrate into mainstream society eventually. Instead of merely providing aid, well-considered welfare programmes are needed to help them coexist with the broader population without exploitation."
Awaradi also highlighted concerns that some tribes, like the Great Andamanese, have largely lost their ethnic culture, now primarily speaking Hindi.
Meanwhile, some Onge youths have developed a fascination with movies and television and have begun consuming alcohol.
Traditional skills such as canoe building and hunting are declining, replaced by new habits and a diet increasingly dependent on carbohydrates. The local administration, however, argues that integration has brought benefits to these communities.
In a recent statement, the Tribal Welfare Department noted, "Positive interventions in healthcare and education have stabilised tribal populations and inspired their younger generations to pursue better job opportunities."
Over the last decade, 26 Andamanese and seven Onge PVTGs have secured government positions.
The statement also acknowledged the adoption of modern preferences: "As Andamanese PVTGs interact more with mainstream society, they may adopt new preferences like cosmetics and electronic items. This can lead to gradual changes in their cultural practices, but personal autonomy allows people to make personal choices."
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